Publications

The Society offers several books for purchase including back issues of the WTHS Papers. Issues of the Papers are archived on the WTHS Papers page.

Historic Shelby County: An Illustrated History by Dr. John E. Harkins

Few know Shelby County and its history like lifelong Memphian John E. Harkins, who expertly chronicles the city’s unparalleled heritage and the individuals and groups who have kept its past alive through the decades. Discover the history in this beautifully illustrated hardback book on Shelby County. Published by The West Tennessee Historical Society 208 Pages Member $35; Non-member $50

COTTON ROW TO BEALE STREET: A BUSINESS HISTORY OF MEMPHIS By Robert A. Sigafoos

This book has been called the definitive business history of Memphis. Mr. Sigafoos had an illustrious career in economics and was professor of real estate and holder of the Morris S. Fogelman Chair in Real Estate at the University of Memphis. He also held teaching positions at Indiana University, Penn State and Drexel Institute of Technology. 342 pages Member $25; Non-member $35

Tennessee: The Volunteer State An Illustrated History By Dr. Robert E. Corlew and William B. Wheeler

Travel through centuries of Tennessee history, from the first settlement of the area by Native Americans to the development of the economic dynamo that is Tennessee today. Illustrated by 300 black & white and vivid color images and perfect for the coffee table, this is a grand addition to anyone’s collection of history. 239 pages Member $25; Non-member $35

Memphis Chronicles by Dr. John E. Harkins

Take a break from the bustle of Poplar and Beale and enjoy this easy ride down memory lane, recalling days when downtown gridlock was caused by streetcars and wagons and the Mid-South was ruled by the likes of the Chickasaws, Confederates, King Cotton and Crump. Discover the origins of the yellow fever epidemic, Memphis in May, Elmwood Cemetery, the heroes of Shelby County history and so much more in “Memphis Chronicles.” Paperback Member $15; Non-member $20

Historical Sketches of the Mid-South by Paul R. Coppock

A six book hard cover set by Paul Coppock former editor and journalist for the Commercial Appeal, which spans more than four decades and is filled with hours of interesting and memorable historical reflections by one of the foremost authors on Memphis and Mid-South history. Memphis Sketches, Memphis Memoirs, Mid-South, Mid-South Vol. II 1971-1975, Mid-South Vol. III 1976-1978, Mid-South Vol. IV 1979-1982. Member $50; Non-member